Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering

Software Engineering is about building effective software systems that address complex problems in a broad range of domains including transport, communications, finance, medicine, science, entertainment and the arts.

The ANU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Software Engineering has many unique characteristics, but best of all, it is built on a multidisciplinary systems approach. The adopted systems approach to software engineering not only covers the technical aspects of professional practice, innovation and research, but also the complex socio-technical context in which these activities occur. This includes approaches to dealing with uncertainty and risk, design, modern management practices, ethics and communication.

Students develop these skills and capabilities through a balance of theoretical study, practice in team projects with industry partners, and work experience. Students also have the opportunity to develop their innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities by working on their own start-ups with industry entrepreneurs as part of their degree.

1. Professionally apply systematic engineering methods to design optimised and sustainable solutions to complex, multi-disciplinary real-world engineering problems.
2. Formulate and evaluate solutions to software engineering problems by selecting and applying theoretical principles and methods from the underpinning mathematical, information and computer sciences.
3. Proficiently apply advanced technical knowledge and appropriate tools in software engineering practices.
4. Identify and critically evaluate current developments and emerging trends in the software engineering discipline.
5. Understand the contextual factors that influence professional engineering practice, and identify the potential societal, ethical, and environmental impact of engineering activities.
6. Communicate effectively with colleagues, other engineering professionals and the broader community employing a range of communication media and tools.
7. Engage in independent research and investigation through the application of research-based knowledge and research methods, including searching, analysing and evaluating information sources within and beyond the software engineering discipline.
8. Engage effectively in critical reflection and independent learning to continue practicing at the forefront of the software engineering discipline.
9. Work effectively and proactively within cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams, demonstrating autonomy, ethical conduct, well-developed judgement, adaptability and responsibility to achieve engineering outcomes at a high standard.

1. To be admitted to an undergraduate coursework degree, you need to meet the University's minimum academic requirement through your senior secondary studies, or after having completed one year of an Australian Bachelor Degree or other qualification accepted by ANU as comparable to an Australian Bachelor Degree as per the Australian Qualification Framework.
2. Make sure you have checked the entry requirements for your preferred program and year (2024). Some programs have additional entry requirements such as prerequisites or portfolios.
3. You must meet the University's English language requirements to be assessed.

Work experience

As a part of your degree you will take part in 60 days of work experience to meet accreditation requirements with Engineers Australia. This provides you with the opportunity to integrate academic theory and real world practice, enhance technical and leadership skills, experience a professional setting, whilst also making valuable connections with industry.

Projects

In addition to compulsory work experience you will also undertake systems engineering projects during your coursework. In these projects you will work in teams on a given problem statement and develop the requirements and key performance indicators to guide you through the design. Your team will then proceed through a systems design process including conceptual design, sub-system requirements, and quantitative trade-off analyses, using the full range of engineering science and professional skills developed during your program.

Projects emphasise teamwork, communication skills, team and personal management and a professional approach to engineering design, all of which are highly valuable traits for an engineer.

Internships

Our industry links enable opportunities to undertake internships which allow you to gain hands-on experience in a workplace environment relevant to your area of future career interests and current academic studies.

You can also receive credit towards your program based on learning outcomes during your placement.

Other practical experience

Use your knowledge to create a positive impact on society through our Engineers Without Borders placements, participate in Humanitarian Design Summits or go on exchange to complement your students and broaden your networks at one of our partner universities around the world.

Employment opportunities

As a professional software engineer with a systems engineering background, you will bring extra value to future employers in a diverse range of professions and organisations. The skills and abilities you gain while studying at ANU are highly sought after by employers both in Australia and overseas, such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, Intel, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Accenture Australia, Bloomberg, National Australia Bank, Citigroup, Deloitte, Unisys and Australian Government.

Graduates find employment opportunities in a variety of roles, including but not limited to:

• Software Engineer
• Software Developer
• Software Consultant
• Software Architect
• Programmer
• System Analyst
• Project Manager
• Product Manager
• Application Developer
• Database Analyst
• Network Architect

1. Check the entry requirements
2. Find an agent
3. Review your documentary evidence
4. Meet English language requirements
5. Explore visa requirements for international students
6. Learn about Mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
7. Apply for campus accommodation